Axe victory high point for Orland
Given the "what have you done for me lately" attitude of some Orland High football enthusiasts, first-year coach Dan McDonald probably aged a lot in the two months the Trojans were on the playing field.
The coach and the program were much-maligned for many of its six losses, yet all was forgiven in Week 3 when the Trojans thoroughly dominated visiting Willows to claim the Battle of the Axe.
Yes, the roster changed during the season due to some disciplinary action, and yes, Orland finished with a losing record of 4-6. But also true is the Trojans were one game better at 4-6 overall than they finished the year before. One must crawl before walking, and walk before running.
The Trojans averaged 169 yards-per game rushing, with Cole Sampson putting up a team-best 674 yards in 93 attempts. Jose Huerta picked up 463 yards in 77 attempts, and Brett Schumann added 257 in 67 touches.
Sampson completed 40-of-75 passes for 789 yards and nine TDs, with Brandon Smith under center to complete 10-of-25 for 170 yards.
Huerta and Antonio Garcia shared the lead in catches with 16 apiece, with Huerta's good for 483 yards and six scores, Garcia's for 172 and a TD. Ethan Schmeltzer also caught eight balls for 162 yards.
Alex Domingo anchored the defense with 107 total tackles, followed by Schumann (71) and Sampson (49).
Casey Gingerich was the sacks leader with 4.5, Domingo wrapped up for 2.5, and Schumann, 2.0.
